Kings Carey is what winemaker James Sparks makes when no one is looking over his shoulder. As the label puts it, wine is art plus science plus love plus labor, but mostly labor, and these small-production bottlings carry the patience and conviction of someone making exactly what he wants to drink.

Simple, on purpose

The Kings Carey philosophy is refreshingly uncomplicated: single varietal, single vineyard, carefully chosen fruit and pick dates, and little to no manipulation in the cellar. Sparks lets each region tell its story and helps the fruit, in his words, fulfill its destiny. The result is a boutique range of honest, transparent wines, the kind that reward attention without ever trying too hard.

The wines

Kings Carey spans some of Santa Barbara’s most rewarding cool-climate grapes, with a particular love for Riesling, a grape too few California wineries take seriously, alongside Rhone varieties like Syrah and Grenache and the occasional Pinot Noir. The wines are bright, balanced, and site-driven, made in tiny quantities.

What to drink it with

The Riesling, crisp and aromatic with a touch of sweetness in some bottlings, is one of the great pairings for spicy food, where its sweetness and acidity cool the heat, and it is lovely with pork or shellfish too. The Syrah is built for tri-tip or grilled lamb, while the Grenache loves roast pork or duck, meeting the food on its bright, red-fruited side.

Plan your visit

Kings Carey is made in small quantities in the Lompoc area of the Sta. Rita Hills. Check the winery for current releases and tasting options. These are wines worth seeking out.

Frequently asked questions